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Tropical Rainforest

The historic Tropical Rainforest exhibit is one of three free-flight exhibit areas in the National Aviary, allowing visitors an unparalleled view into habits and behaviors of the birds living freely within the exhibit.

What are tropical forests?

Tropical forests are some of the most complex and diverse ecosystems in the world. They are located around the equator and receive at least 60 inches of rain a year, although most receive much more than that.

The temperature usually remains between 68° F and 82° F throughout the year.

Why are tropical forests important?

Tropical forests are home to half of our planet’s living species – an estimated 2 to 5 million species of plants and animals!

Many products you eat and use come from tropical forests – fruits, chocolate, coffee, cinnamon and cashews, just to name a few!

Many of the plants found in tropical forests are used to develop medicines that help fight diseases.

And of course, humans and animals get clean oxygen from all of those plants.

Tropical forests — and their inhabitants — are in danger!

At least half of the world’s tropical forests have been destroyed for lumber, cattle ranching and through poor farming practices. The tropical forests that remain cover only six percent of the Earth’s surface, but the demand for the resources that rainforests offer continues to rise as our human population grows.

Check the daily schedule for feedings and other events that take place in the Tropical Rainforest.